While many might scoff at Londoners' complaints about the "extreme" weather, there really is something apocalyptic about trying to survive a heatwave in the city. Anyone who has braved the Central line on a Monday morning or attempted to find a spot of grass in Regent's Park will acknowledge the sheer grit required to live and work in a place that's not designed for these soaring temperatures.
While we can't help with the cattle-like conditions of your commute (or lack of air-con), we can give you a helping hand when it comes to your wardrobe. Here's the crux of the problem: Most of us don't want to wear our holiday kaftans and beach-ready denim shorts out to brunch on Sunday, but they can feel like our only options when the mercury skyrockets. Why should we have to comprise our usual style just because London's having a meteorological identity crisis?
You're not alone. I've been desperately searching Instagram for outfit ideas that will keep me cool and stylish without looking like I've just stepped off a Maldivian beach. While it might seem like 99% of Instagram is on holiday 99% of the time, I actually managed to find a generous selection of style inspiration via women who manage to look perfectly pulled together even when the heat is on. Scroll down to see and shop my favourite looks.
1. White Shirt + Culottes
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2. Cotton Midi Dress + Strappy Sandals
Style Notes: You really can't go wrong with a summer dress, and this season, checks are leading the way. They look particularly chic when paired with a midi hemline and practical sandals.
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3. Midi Skirt + Crop Top
Style Notes: We never thought a crop top would catch our eye when it comes to dressing for warm weather, but the 2019 iterations feel decidedly grown-up and elegant. Just balance out the proportions with a high-waisted skirt or trousers.
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4. Loose Jumpsuit + Mules
Style Notes: If you're looking for low-effort heatwave dressing ideas, I can't recommend a jumpsuit enough. Pick one with a loose fit and light cotton or linen fabric and add a pair of heeled mules à la Hannah Lewis.
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Related: The Timeless Dress Style Everyone in London Is Getting Behind This Summer
5. Shorts Co-Ord + Strappy Sandals
Style Notes: Co-ords have been an unexpected (but certainly welcome) addition to our summer capsule. Forget cheap-looking, stretchy styles—it's all about luxe iterations in artsy prints.
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6. Smock Mini Dress + Chunky Sandals
Style Notes: If you're more partial to a mini, why not give this season's smock dress a try? Offering a more modern spin on the thigh-grazing staple, they'll look fab with chunky sandals and retro sunnies.
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7. White Jeans + Printed Top
Style Notes: White jeans have shaken off their preppy connotations and have been given a whole new lease of life thanks to Instagram's finest. We like how Ada has styled hers with a floral blouse and mint-green accessories.
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